CAA expresses concern over ‘fake’ COVID-19 PCR test results

KARACHI: The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has expressed concern over passengers travelling to Pakistan, especially from Gulf States, have tested positive for the Covid-19 upon arrival despite being in possession of negative PCR test results.

Taking notice of the situation, the CAA expressed grave concern and directed all airlines operating to and from Pakistan to ensure that all passengers travelling to the country possess test results from government- approved labs and that no test results be accepted without a valid QR code.

A statement issued by the CAA said, “Upon conducting an investigation into the issue, it has been found that passengers travelled to Pakistan using fake PCR negative test results and, endangered not only passengers travelling with them, but also undermined the intense efforts being made at the national level to curb the spread of Covid-19, especially from Gulf states.”

Earlier, the CAA had added six more countries to the C category list including South Africa, UK, Portugal, Ireland and Brazil. As per CAA, the category C international passengers now have to show coronavirus report upon arrival and they will undergo another assessment of the virus in Pakistan.

The new categories, A & B, for international travels wherein 23 countries now qualify in the former category which means people traveling to Pakistan from them will not have to take the mandatory pre-boarding Covid test, CAA notified.

According to CAA, China, Saudi Arabia, New Zealand, and Australia are among the A-category countries. However, those coming from countries in the B travel category will have to make sure a negative Covid PCR report a maximum of 90 hours prior to boarding.

It is mandatory for all international airlines, chartered aircraft, and other airlines to follow SOPs implemented by CAA. In addition, all travelers from abroad are required to fill out a health declaration form.